Michael Edward (Mike) Burkart

Michael Edward (Mike) Burkart, of DeKalb, IL, died on January 13, 2021 at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital at the age of 83. Michael was born on June 1, 1937 in Sycamore, IL to Donald and Kathryn (Higgins) Burkart. Michael married Judy McCann, on August 3, 1968.

Michael is survived by Judy, their children Brian Burkart of DeKalb, and Rebecca (Christopher) Burkart-Nagengast of Portland, Oregon.  Michael is also survived by his first wife, Doral, and their three children Cynthia (Mark) Gotts, of Fullerton, CA; Patrick (Angelika) Burkart of Ohmbach, Germany; and Shawn Burkart, of Springfield, Oregon. Michael has five grandchildren: Evan, Christa, Daniel, Torben, Hannah and Theo, whom he loved very much.

Michael was the second of six children and was preceded in death by his beloved older brother, Patrick (Barbara) Burkart, of Sycamore and his younger sister, Donna Adams. Michael is survived by his younger sisters: Kathleen Campbell, of Denver, CO; Constance (John) Arends, of Sycamore; and Teresa Meisch, of Cortland; and many nieces and nephews and their children.

Michael will be missed by many who knew him to be a sweet, gentle and funny man who always had a kind word to say to everyone he spoke to, but he will be most missed by Judy. He fought bravely through the ups and downs of a long hospitalization that came on suddenly in December 2020, wanting more than anything to come home to be by her side for many more years. Judy, Brian and Rebecca were grateful to be by Michael's side when he passed away peacefully.

No services will be held at this time. Memorial contributions can be sent in Michael's name to the Sycamore Public Library or Spartan Food Pantry. Cremation was entrusted to: Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL, 60115 (815) 758-3841